Burn the eyelids: first aid
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Burns of the cornea and conjunctiva can be severe, especially after exposure to concentrated acids or alkalis.
The eyelids are washed with a sterile isotonic solution, after which an antibacterial ointment is placed under them.
Burnt areas should be rinsed immediately with plenty of water or, if necessary, with 0.9% sodium chloride solution. The eye can be anesthetized with a drop of 0.5% proparachain solution, while washing should not be delayed, the eye should be washed for at least 30 minutes. Some authors suggest burns with acid or alkali rinse for 1-2 hours, others suggest measuring the pH of the conjunctiva with litmus paper and continue washing before neutralizing the pH.
The conjunctival sac is then treated with a swab to remove stuck particles. With the help of a double eversion of the eyelids, the upper section of the conjunctival sac is examined for the presence of chemical residues.
Chemical iris burns are treated by instillation of long-acting cycloplegic drugs (eg, a single dose of 1% atropine solution). When defects of the epithelium of the cornea apply ointments with antibiotics (for example, 0.3% ciprofloxacin). After the first washing, the use of local anesthetics should be avoided, a significant pain can be suppressed with paracetamol with or without sikodon.
To preserve vision and prevent serious complications, such as uveitis, perforation of the eyeball and eyelid deformation, severe chemical burns should be treated with an ophthalmologist. Patients with severe reddening of the eyes, avascular zones on the conjunctiva or with defects of the conjunctival or iris epithelium, determined by fluorescent staining, should examine the ophthalmologist within 24 hours.
[What do need to examine?
How to examine?